The 10 km national road race in the heart of Canosa di Puglia
The Diomediade – Peppuccio Matarrese Memorial is one of the most deeply rooted running events in the Barletta-Andria-Trani province. Every year, the streets of the center of Canosa di Puglia, in the Puglia region, transform into a race track that draws athletes from all over the region and beyond. The name pays homage to Diomedes, the Greek hero who, according to tradition, founded the ancient Canusium, thus linking the sport to the city's rich historical and archaeological identity.
The Diomediade is a 10 km national road race held on a FIDAL-certified course entirely within the city, with the start and finish line in Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The route traverses the main streets of the historic center and the neighborhoods of Canosa, offering athletes a fast loop and spectators the chance to follow the runners up close.
The event serves as the Regional Individual and Club Master Championship over 10 km and is part of two prestigious Apulian circuits: the Corripuglia, which brings together the region's main road races, and the Trofeo degli Ulivi, the provincial circuit of the BAT area. The race is open to FIDAL-registered athletes, members of recognized international federations, Runcard holders, and members of Sports Promotion Bodies.
The race bears the name of Peppuccio Matarrese, a beloved figure in Canosa's sports scene, remembered as a passionate promoter of running and an active lifestyle. By dedicating each edition to him, the organizing club, A.S.D. Atletica Pro Canosa, keeps the emotional bond between the community and its sporting tradition alive.
Beyond the competitive aspect, the Diomediade is a celebration of sport that involves the entire city: volunteers, enthusiasts, and families gather along the route to support the athletes. The event is held under the patronage of the Puglia Region and the Municipality of Canosa di Puglia, confirming its key role in the Apulian running calendar.
The 27th Diomediade – Peppuccio Matarrese Memorial took place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Canosa di Puglia, on the 10 km certified course with start and finish in Piazza Vittorio Veneto. The event was valid as a Regional Individual and Club Master Championship, the tenth race of the Corripuglia circuit, and the sixth stage of the Trofeo degli Ulivi. The organization was handled by A.S.D. Atletica Pro Canosa with the patronage of the Puglia Region.
In the men's category, Jean de Dieu Butoyi (Bitonto Runners) won in 31'53", ahead of his compatriot Olivier Irabaruta (Runcard, 32'46") and Luigi Catalano (Atletica Pro Canosa, 33'16"). Completing the top five were Mino Albanese (Marathon Massafra, 34'05") and Mimmo Ricatti (Atletica Pro Canosa, 34'27"). Among the women, Rita Cafagna succeeded with a time of 39'34". The race awarded the Regional Master Championship titles and points for the Corripuglia and Trofeo degli Ulivi circuits.
Canosa di Puglia can be reached by car via the A14 motorway (Canosa exit) and the A16. The train station is served by regional lines; the start and finish are located in Piazza Vittorio Veneto, in the city center.
Registration is reserved for FIDAL-registered athletes, Runcard holders, or EPS members. The fee is €10 with a race pack or €8 without. An original medical certificate for competitive sports is required when collecting the race bib.
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Piazza Vittorio Veneto
Piazza Vittorio Veneto, 76012 Canosa di Puglia